Cliff Lee, Starting Pitcher

Denis Poroy/Getty Images

Contract Status: Two years, $50 million guaranteed (2014-15), $27.5 million vesting option (2016)

Why He's a Good Target: No doubt the top target on the trade market, Cliff Lee is the ace that some contending teams are looking for as the deadline rolls around. Lee gives every team a legitimate No. 1 starter to stick at the top of the rotation and still has at least two more years left on his deal. The amount left on his deal will keep some teams out of the running, though, unless the Phillies agree to pick up a portion of what's left in the contract.

Yovani Gallardo, Starting Pitcher

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Contract Status: One year, $11.25 million (2014), $13 million team option (2015)

Why He's a Good Target: Yovani Gallardo has had tough luck this year, mainly because the Brewers have struggled as a whole. His ERA (4.85) is not where we're accustomed to seeing it, and his strikeouts (88) are down. But a team that loses out on one of the other top starters at the deadline will try to get the Brewers to trade Gallardo.

Potential Suitors: Arizona Diamondbacks

Updates

July 4

According to Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi, the Diamondbacks are interested in acquiring Gallardo from the Brewers, along with possibly another reliever:

The Diamondbacks and Brewers are in the midst of ongoing discussions about starter Yovani Gallardo and relievers John Axford, Jim Henderson, and Francisco Rodriguez, the sources said.

The Diamondbacks’ farm system is deep enough that they could conceivably acquire Gallardo and one of the relievers. Arizona has needs in both areas, with starters Trevor Cahill, Brandon McCarthy and Daniel Hudson on the disabled list and Heath Bell still subbing for J.J. Putz as the closer.

According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Yankees haven't received one single offer for Hughes.

July 17

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the market for Hughes isn't what the Yankees thought it would be.

But so far, the Yankees don't seem to be finding the right kind of return, according to sources. Hughes is much better than his stats, but thus far, the interest isn't thought to be there.

July 13

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports the Rockies could be interested in making a deal for Hughes. However, tehy see him more as a bullpen piece than a starter.

July 10

CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reports the Yankees are dangling Hughes in hopes of getting a bat for their depleted offense, according to a rival executive.

That exec further opined that Hughes could be quite effective "if you get him out of Yankee Stadium and into a pitcher's park." While the Yankees are hitting in that same park, their offense has been about the worst in baseball since the beginning of June, causing them to fall into fourth place in the tight AL East.

Bud Norris, Starting Pitcher

Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images

Contract Status: Second-year arbitration eligible (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Bud Norris doesn't have a lot of luck with the Houston Astros. However, placed in the middle of a good rotation, with decent support behind him, and Norris could be a valuable No. 3 or 4 pitcher down the stretch.

Acccording to ESPN's Jim Bowden, the Orioles are still engaging the Astros on Norris.

July 29

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the reason Norris is still in a Houston uniform is because of the high price the Astros are asking in return.

“...they want a package that begins with a top prospect,” according to one scout—because of his cost (just $3 million this year) and because he can’t be a free agent until after the 2015 season. But the same scout said: “Just because you can control him that doesn’t make him a top-of-the-rotation starter.”

July 26

Even before the Tim Hudson injury, the Braves were interested in acquiring Norris, according to the New York Post's Joel Sherman.

July 24

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, Norris is drawing considerable interest among several teams.

Instead, the team would be more intrigued by the idea of identifying a pitcher with a solid performance track record who would be available for multiple years of control. According to one major league source, a pitcher like Bud Norris—6-8 with a 3.63 ERA, 6.4 strikeouts per nine innings, 2.8 walks per nine innings, averaging exactly six innings per start—represents the sort of pitcher who, at least in theory, matches up with what the Sox are seeking.

July 12

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the Astros are asking for two top prospects in return for Norris and could be the next starter to go. "Garza is the biggest immediate impact guy and Norris is the best long value guy,'' one rival GM said.

July 10

ESPN's Doug Mittler (insider required) linked Norris to the Indians, Rangers, Royals and Rockies, adding Norris didn't help his value with July 9 start against the Cardinals.

Ervin Santana, Starting Pitcher

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Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Ervin Santana is having one of the best seasons of his career thus far in 2013. He's a free agent after this year and it's likely the Royals won't re-sign him, so they might as well get something in return for him.

According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Royals are now willing to listen to offers for Santana.

July 18

According to Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star (h/t MLB Trade Rumors) the Royals won't be entertaining offers for Santana.

July 10

CBS Sports' Danny Knobler said the Royals likely wouldn't trade Santana, but if they did, he'd become a hot commodity on the market.

The Royals definitely haven't ruled out re-signing Santana, who is eligible for free agency at the end of the season. At this point, they would be very likely to make him a qualifying offer, meaning they would get draft-pick compensation if he signs elsewhere as a free agent.

Chris Sale, Starting Pitcher

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Contract Status: Four years, $30.65 million guaranteed (2014-17), $12.5 million team option (2018), $13.5 million team option (2019).

Why He's a Good Target: He's an ace that is under team control at least another four years. Not to mention he has relatively inexpensive team options. Sale has shown to be one of the best pitchers in baseball the last two years and would look nice at the top of any rotation.

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal suggests the White Sox shouldn't shop Sale around to 29 other teams. Instead, they should go about it quietly with teams that have rich farm systems like the Rangers, Red Sox, Diamondbacks and Cardinals.

Tim Lincecum, Starting Pitcher/Relief Pitcher

Victor Decolongon/Getty Images

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: For those who didn't tune into Tim Lincecum's no-hitter, "The Freak" can still bring it. While he doesn't hold as much value as a starter, Lincecum out of the bullpen is what many teams are looking at.

Justin Morneau, First Base

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Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Although Justin Morneau is a shade of his former self, he is still driving in runs in the middle of the order. For teams that are hurting for a middle of the order bat, Morneau would be a perfect fit.

Chase Utley, Second Base

Drew Hallowell/Getty Images

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: What more can you say about Chase Utley that hasn't already been said? He's one of the better second basemen in the league and provides great leadership. For a young and contending team, he would be a perfect fit.

Michael Young, Third Base

Drew Hallowell/Getty Images

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Michael Young not only brings a veteran presence to the locker room, but he provides a decent bat and good defense at the hot corner. Not only can he play third, but he could also fill in at any of the other infield positions for a team in need.

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal tweeted that Young has changed his mind about waiving his no-trade clause to the Red Sox.

July 28

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, Young has been made available by the Phillies.

July 16

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal writes the Phillies aren't looking sell, but intense trade interest in Young might make them reconsider.

The demand for Young is rising in part because of the shortage of quality right-handed hitters on the trade market. The Phillies, however, have no obvious internal replacement for Young, particularly if they plan to overtake the Braves in the National League East.

July 12

Matt Gelb of the Philadelphia Inquirer writes various scouts having been watching Young over the last few days and many see him as a hybrid utilityman.

July 11

New York Post writer George A. King III writes the Red Sox and Yankees seem to be the most serious contenders for Young.

Instead, according to several organizations, teams view Young as a second baseman, his original position. Of course, the Yankees and Red Sox are set at second.

Also, the Red Sox top priority has shifted from third base to bullpen help.

The Phillies had special assignment scout Howie Frieling watching the Yankees in Minnesota last week and Sal Agostinelli, their director of international scouting, at Yankee Stadium Wednesday night.

July 9

Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News reports the Phillies are interested in trading Michael Young for Chamberlain in a salary-dump swap.

July 7

ESPN's Jayson Stark reported that a Yankees scout was in Philly over the weekend, possibly scouting Young.

Ventura actually took Rios out of the game because the veteran outfielder didn't hustle down the line on a ground ball he hit that eventually became a double play, per a report in the Chicago Tribune.

Even after Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons failed to field the grounder cleanly, he was still able to turn two because Rios wasn't running hard. Turns out, it cost the Sox a run—and the lead—too, because Alejandro De Aza was on third base and would have scored if Rios' GIDP hadn't ended the inning.

Rios has faced character questions in the past and this only brings them back up.

July 18

CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reports the Pirates are among the teams looking at Rios. Not only Rios, they also could be looking at shortstop Alexi Ramirez.

Pittsburgh has done a superb job pitching but scouts question whether its offense will be enough to sustain a playoff run. "They definitely need a right fielder," one National League scout said. As for shortstop, rookie Jordy Mercer is currently manning that key position for the Pirates.

July 16

ESPN Dallas' Richard Durrett reports the Rangers have had a keen eye on Rios.

The question, as usual, will be cost. Rios is 32 years old and is not a rental player. But he doesn't come cheap, either. He's due to make another $6 million or so this season, $12.5 million next season and there's a $13.5 million club option for 2015.

According to Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune, the six teams on Rios' no-trade list are the Yankees, Diamondbacks, Rockies, Astros, Royals and Athletics.

July 1

According to Bruce Levine of ESPN Chicago, the Giants, Rangers and Diamondbacks are in the mix for Rios:

According to industry sources, numerous clubs—including Pierzynski’s Texas Rangers, the San Francisco Giants and the Arizona Diamondbacks—are watching Rios from city to city. Rios had a career year for Chicago in 2012, batting .304 with 25 home runs and 91 RBIs.

Michael Cuddyer, Outfielder

Dustin Bradford/Getty Images

Contract Status: One year, $10.5 million guaranteed (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Whether you need him to play a corner outfield position or first base, Michael Cuddyer can fill many holes on a club. Not to mention he provides a lot of power in the middle of the lineup.

Potential Suitors: New York Yankees, Texas Rangers

Updates

July 18

Troy Renck of the Denver Post tweeted the Rockies will not be trading Cuddyer. According to Rockies owner Dick Monfort, "No way. Not happening."

July 14

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports the Rangers may have some interest in Cuddyer, adding the Rangers are currently in search of a right-handed hitter.

July 10

The Rockies were once thought to be buyers, but that may not be the case in the second half. If the Rockies were to sell, Cuddyer would be a target according to CBS Sports' Danny Knobler. However, the Rockies "would need to be overwhelmed to consider moving him."

Nate Schierholtz, Outfielder

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Contract Status: Third-year arbitration eligible (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Nate Schierholtz is quietly putting together a solid season for the Cubs and now the focus is turning to him with Alfonso Soriano being traded. He's an inexpensive option for teams that need a power bat in the outfield.

Potential Suitors: Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates

Updates

July 30

According to Bruce Levine of ESPN Chicago, the Pirates remain interested in Schierholtz, while ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted the outfielder is likely to be traded.

July 26

According to the New York Post's Joel Sherman, the Cubs aren't done yet and are definitely listening on Schierholtz.

Andre Ethier, Outfielder

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Contract Status: Four years, $69 million guaranteed (2014-17), $17.5 million vesting option (2018)

Why He's a Good Target: Andre Ethier still has a lot in the tank at 31. What makes him unattractive to teams is his contract. However, he's a good outfielder and hitter to put into a No. 5 or 6 spot in the order. The Dodgers are about to have a logjam in the outfield, making Ethier perfect trade bait.

Joe Nathan, Relief Pitcher

Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Contract Status: $9 million team option (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Perhaps one of the best closers this year, Joe Nathan has proven he can get the job done. It's surprising the Rangers have put him on the block, but if he is traded, that team will have solidified its bullpen.

Potential Suitors: Detroit Tigers

Updates

July 28

ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted the Rangers are shopping Nathan for an established hitter.

Jonathan Papelbon, Relief Pitcher

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Contract Status: Two years, $26 million guaranteed (2014-15), $13 million vesting option (2016)

Why He's a Good Target: Every contender needs bullpen help. Jonathan Papelbon is one of the best closers in the game and would be more than great for a team in need of a stopper. When given the chance to shut the door, Papelbon has been quite successful, as he rarely gives up a run in crucial situations and has 276 career saves.

Potential Suitors: Detroit Tigers

Updates

July 15

The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham tweeted the Red Sox are unlikely to pursue Papelbon due to the salary remaining on his contract and recent performance.

July 10

Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi wrote in a column the Phillies aren't looking to subtract a reliever, instead they're trying to add one.

July 3

According to Andy Martino of the New York Daily News, the Phillies could hold on to Papelbon, but people in league circles see too much need among contenders like Boston and Detroit.

"Someone is going to offer them a lot for Pap," said one rival executive.

Ryan Webb, Relief Pitcher

Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images

Contract Status: Second-year arbitration eligible in 2014

Why He's a Good Target: A good right-handed arm for the Miami Marlins, Ryan Webb can bring a lot to a team. Being that he's a middle reliever entering his second year of arbitration, the Marlins will look to get rid of him, considering their history of not wanting to pay non-closers seven figures.

Luke Gregerson, Relief Pitcher

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Contract Status: Third-year arbitration eligible (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Consistency is key when it comes to Luke Gregerson. The guy has been consistently one of the best relievers in baseball over the last three years. Not to mention, he's a horse that can be called on three days in a row to get the job done. That's key down the stretch.

Potential Suitors: Detroit Tigers, Philadelphia Phillies

Updates

July 29

According to CBS Sports' Danny Knobler, the price for Gregerson is too high for the Tigers.

July 26

According to Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi, the Tigers continue to scout the Padres, especially Gregerson.

According to ESPN's Jayson Stark, the Phillies and Padres have talked a lot about Gregerson.

An executive who speaks frequently with the Phillies' brass says the Phillies and Padres have "talked a lot" about a potential deal that could send reliever Luke Gregerson and an outfielder to Philadelphia for a package of young players. But the Phillies appear to be poking around for deals that wouldn't require them to give up any of their most advanced prospects.

Joba Chamberlain, Relief Pitcher

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Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Joba Chamberlain has been an afterthought in the Yankees bullpen, but he still has a decent arm. For teams needing relief help, Chamberlain could be serviceable. A change of scenery might be what he needs to get his career on the right track.

As for what the Phillies are looking for, their recent reports on Joba Chamberlain aren’t good. They have questions about what is perceived as the reliever’s immaturity.

How far has Chamberlain’s stock fallen? One team that had an interest two weeks ago isn’t going to make an offer for him because there is a belief the Yankees eventually will release Chamberlain, who will be a free agent following the season.

July 10

According to a tweet by Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, the Yankees are actively pushing Chamberlain and Phil Hughes on the trade market. According to the AL executive he talked with, "Joba could happen soon to an NL team."

July 9

Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News reports the Phillies are interested in trading Michael Young for Chamberlain in a salary-dump swap.

Oliver Perez, Relief Pitcher

Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Oliver Perez is a savvy veteran that can put in long innings or short appearances. He's been one of Seattle's better relief pitchers the last two years and the Mariners can capitalize on his success at the deadline.

Potential Suitors: Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles

Updates

July 12

According to a tweet by ESPN's Peter Gammons, the Mariners are asking for a premier prospect in return for Perez and two other relievers.

July 10

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, Perez is drawing interest from the Braves, Orioles and other teams. "Competing execs mention how Perez is more cost-efficient in terms of prospects and cash than, say, Matt Thornton of the White Sox.

Glen Perkins, Relief Pitcher

Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images

Contract Status: Two year, $7.5 million guaranteed (2014-15), $4.5 million team option (2016)

Why He's a Good Target: This is a case of striking while the iron is hot. Glen Perkins has been one of the best closers in the AL this year and teams needing bullpen help want him. He does have a club-friendly contract, which is why the Twins want to keep him, but it's hard to argue he has a lot of value right now.

Potential Suitors: Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves

Updates

July 17

According to ESPN's Jim Bowden (insider required), the Cardinals, Reds, Dodgers and Braves are all chasing bullpen arms, but were told no by the Twins.

July 14

Mike Beradino of the Pioneer Press reports the Twins are willing to trade anyone, including Perkins.

"If somebody overwhelms you with something, then you've got to listen," (GM Terry) Ryan said. "There's no question. You just can't say, 'No.' It's not just Glen Perkins. It would be anybody in this situation. If somebody wants to talk about a guy, I'm all ears. Go ahead."

James Russell, Relief Pitcher

Jason Szenes/Getty Images

Contract Status: Second-year arbitration eligible (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Good left-handed relievers are hard to come by. James Russell hasn't been lights out this year, but he's more than filled that role for the Cubs. For a team in need of a good lefty, Russell can be had for a good price.

Potential Suitors: Baltimore Orioles, Arizona Diamondbacks

Updates

July 30

According to ESPN Chicago's Bruce Levine, the Braves nearly acquired Russell last week.

July 26

According to ESPN Chicago's Bruce Levine, at least five teams are interested in Russell, including the Braves, Orioles and Diamondbacks.

July 18

MLB.com's Mark Bowman reports the Braves are looking for a left-handed reliever and Russell is at the top of their list.

With Wood currently preparing to make one or two Minor League starts before returning to the Majors, Luis Avilan stands as the only left-handed reliever in Atlanta’s bullpen.

There is reason to believe Wood could replace Kris Medlen in the rotation and if this proves to be true, Medlen would likely be moved back to a relief role.

Jake Peavy, Starting Pitcher

Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

TRADED TO BOSTON RED SOX

Contract Status: One year, $14.5 million guaranteed (2014), $15 million player option (2015)

Why He's a Good Target: Jake Peavy has been a shade of his former self ever since he came to the White Sox. Part of it is due to injury, while another part of it is playing in Chicago. In Petco Park (a pitcher's park), Peavy was one of the best pitchers in baseball. He could find that same kind of success in a pitcher's park again.

Potential Suitors: Boston Red Sox

Updates

July 31

According to ESPN Boston, Peavy has been traded in a three-team deal to the Red Sox. Detroit was the other team involved in the deal.

The biggest piece (other than Peavy) in the deal was Jose Iglesias going to Detroit, while the White Sox added Avisail Garcia.

July 30

According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Athletics have moved on from Peavy.

Rob Bradford of WEEI.com says the Red Sox have found the asking price for Peavy to be too high.

Gordon Edes of ESPN Boston tweeted the Diamondbacks are now the front-runners for Peavy.

July 29

According to Yahoo! Sports' Jeff Passan, even though they aren't the front-runners, the Red Sox are very much in the Peavy sweepstakes.

July 28

According to ESPN Chicago's Bruce Levine, Peavy has cleaned out his locker in Chicago in anticipation of being traded.

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal tweeted the Braves were no longer in the mix for Peavy.

July 26

According to David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Peavy is a legit possibility for the Braves to acquire before the deadline.

July 24

According to MLB.com's Scott Merkin, Will Middlebrooks has been mentioned as a player the Red Sox could send the White Sox way.

Middlebrooks, at 24, would fill a need moving forward as an impact type player to help fill out the White Sox infield. Strangely enough, it was Middlebrooks' emergence in Boston last year that played a part in Kevin Youkilis becoming available for the White Sox.

July 23

CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reports the Cardinals and Red Sox are emerging as the top suitors for Peavy.

July 20

According to a tweet by ESPN's Buster Olney, the Red Sox are sending a scout to Saturday's White Sox game to presumably look at Peavy.

July 11

ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted the Diamondbacks are among the teams talking about Peavy, adding the White Sox scouts have been on hand at Arizona games.

July 9

While currently on the disabled list, Peavy considered asking the White Sox if he could pitch for them Sunday before the All-Star break, according to a tweet by the Chicago Tribune'sMark Gonzales. If he returns healthy, he could be a huge trade chip come July 31.

Matt Garza, Starting Pitcher

Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

TRADED TO THE TEXAS RANGERS

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: Matt Garza has almost been an afterthought with the Chicago Cubs. However, he's a big target this season, with multiple teams interested in acquiring his services. Garza has kept his ERA below 4.00 in all but one of his eight seasons, and he could slot into a team's No. 2 spot for the stretch run.

Potential Suitors: Texas Rangers

Updates

July 22

The Rangers and Cubs finally got a deal done, according to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal.

In exchange for Garza, the Cubs received Triple-A infielder Mike Olt, Single-A right-hander C.J. Edwards, right-hander Justin Grimm and at least one player to be named.

July 21

According to a tweet by the Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo, the Red Sox interest in Garza is deepening.

July 19

According to a tweet by ESPN's Jim Bowden, the trade between the Rangers and Cubs broke down because of the medical records of one player involved.

The deal is no longer imminent, but the Rangers are still pursuing Garza.

July 18

ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted the Cubs are asking teams to send their last and best offers for Garza.

According to Yahoo! Sports Jeff Passan, if Garza doesn't go to the Rangers, rival executives are saying the likeliest teams he'll go to are the Cardinals, Red Sox, Diamondbacks or Dodgers.

July 16

According to David Kaplan on CSN Chicago, Texas, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Toronto and the Dodgers seem to be the strongest pursuers for Garza.

July 15

CSN Chicago's David Kaplan tweeted Garza is going to be traded by the end of the week, although they won't move him until they get what they want.

July 14

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the Cubs have told Garza he's likely going to be traded.

Garza is drawing interest from the Rangers, Indians, Red Sox and Cardinals, among others.

Texas and Cleveland seem to be clear players while Boston's interest might depend somewhat on when star Clay Buchholz returns from injury, which is unclear. Others believe St. Louis is a stealth player in the derby for the red-hot right-hander.

July 13

Bruce Levine of ESPN Chicago reports the Rangers and Blue Jays are the front-runners for Garza.

The Cubs will be looking for pitching and run-producer prospects in return for Garza. The Rangers' Mike Olt would most likely be a part of any deal if Chicago and Texas agree on a trade.

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports the Cubs and Garza have had detailed talks on an extension, but it was more likely the team would trade him before the deadline.

ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted the Orioles are out of the running for Garza because of the high cost in prospects and money.

July 11

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick tweeted the Indians are seeking starting help, but would prefer a player they could control for multiple years.

July 9

Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi reports the market for Garza is strong, especially after his start on Monday against the White Sox.

The Rangers and Indians are known to have strong interest. The Boston Red Sox, Washington Nationals, and big-spending Los Angeles Dodgers can’t be ruled out. The Dodgers are still involved, a source told FOXSports.com, even after their recent acquisition of Ricky Nolasco.

July 8

USA Today's Bob Nightengale tweeted out that the Dodgers and Indians are heavily scouting Garza, believing he will be dealt.

According to Adam Kilgore of The Washington Post, the Nationals have kicked the tires on Garza:

Garza is one of the most sought-after starting pitchers on the trade market, and so their initial interest will not necessarily lead to a deal. But it does show a willingness, if not a desire, to augment their rotation for the stretch run as they chase the Atlanta Braves in the NL East.

According to ESPN's Jim Bowden on Twitter, the Dodgers thought the Cubs were asking for too much in return for Garza, which is why they opted to trade for the Miami Marlins' Ricky Nolasco instead (h/t USA Today).

July 5

ESPN's Buster Olney said in his podcast that he'd be surprised to see Garza still on the Cubs at the All-Star break, but the Cubs may wait as long as possible for a team to meet their price.

He said he counted eight teams that could be involved, including multiple NL West teams, as well as a few AL teams such as the Rangers, Indians, Blue Jays and Red Sox.

Jesse Crain, Relief Pitcher

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

TRADED TO TAMPA BAY RAYS

Contract Status: Free agent after 2013

Why He's a Good Target: One of the top bullpen arms available, Jesse Crain is a perfect fit for contenders needing bullpen help. The biggest question will be if he can return from injury and perform well so he can be traded.

Potential Suitors: Tampa Bay Rays

Updates

July 29

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported the Rays and White Sox agreed to a trade sending Crain to the Rays in exchange for a player to be named later. However, the teams will negotiate cash/player combos in the next few weeks.

July 17

Troy E. Renck of the Denver Postreports the Rockies are very interested in Crain, given the failures of Wilton Lopez. "The idea of Crain as a Rockie is hardly farfetched. Colorado has interest, though the White Sox's price is understandably high."

Francisco Rodriguez, Relief Pitcher

Why He's a Good Target: Francisco Rodriguez has been bumped up to closer for the Brewers. For a contending team, he provides a good power arm at the back of the bullpen, even if it's not as closer.

Potential Suitors: Baltimore Orioles

Updates

July 23

K-Rod has been traded to the Orioles for minor league infielder Nick Delmonico, according to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal.

July 22

According to tweets by ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the Dodgers and Red Sox are keeping close tabs on K-Rod, while the Tigers have a lesser sense of urgency due to the recent performances by Joaquin Benoit and Drew Smyly.

Matt Thornton, Relief Pitcher

Bob Levey/Getty Images

TRADED TO THE BOSTON RED SOX

Contract Status: $6 million team option (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: Matt Thornton is a good left-handed reliever. He has a high ERA (4.00), but has blown just one save all season. For teams looking for relief help, there are no better lefties available on the market.

Potential Suitors: Boston Red Sox

Updates

July 12

The White Sox traded Thornton to the Red Sox in exchange for minor-league outfielder Brandon Jacobs and $750,000 cash, according to Rob Bradford of WEEI 93.7 FM.

Jacobs was the No. 11-ranked prospect in the Red Sox organization, according to mlb.com.

July 10

Dan Hayes of CSNChicago.com reports that the White Sox are seeking premium talent. "He’s interested in starting pitching and talent up the middle.”

The Boston Globe'sNick Cafardo wrote in a column that with the recent injuries and struggles the Red Sox bullpen is having, general manager Ben Cherington might have to give up more than he wants to if he wants to get a quality reliever like Thornton.

July 7

Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal tweeted out that the Red Sox and Braves could be possible suitors for Thornton.

Alfonso Soriano, Outfielder

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

TRADED TO NEW YORK YANKEES

Contract Status: One year, $18 million guaranteed (2014)

Why He's a Good Target: For all the talk about Alfonso Soriano's bad contract, he still hits the ball with good power. For teams in need of a corner outfielder and a bat in the middle of the lineup, Soriano could be the perfect fit.

Potential Suitors: New York Yankees

Updates

July 26

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Soriano has been traded to the Yankees for Single-A RHP Corey Black. The Yankees will pay a pro-rated $5 million this year and $5 million of his $18 million contract next year.

July 25

According to Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune, Soriano was scratched from the lineup for the Cubs because a deal with the Yankees is close.

July 23

According to Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune, the Yankees and Cubs have been talking of a possible Soriano deal.

The New York Post reported early Tuesday that the teams were close to a deal that would send Soriano, who began his major league career with the Yankees, back to the Big Apple. But a Cubs source told the Tribune that conversations are preliminary and they are "not close" to a deal yet.

Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer said the same to MLB Network Radio, calling the report "very premature; we've had conversations with multiple teams about him, but nothing close."

July 9

CSN Chicago's Patrick Mooney wrote Soriano would listen to trade ideas if contenders called the Cubs.

“I’d never say that to him, because I don’t want to be on this team if they don’t want me here,” Soriano said after Monday’s 8-2 win over the White Sox. “It’s kind of hard and selfish to think (that way). If they want me to stay here, I’m going to stay here. But if they don’t want me to, the door is open.”